The Spectacle: Hometown Optical Services

Being in business for themselves has been a lifelong dream for Central residents Shawn and Tracy Parker, who last March opened The Spectacle, Central’s only optical boutique, at 14790 Wax Road, Suite 107, next door to Sammy’s.

Tracy, a native of Zachary, was working at an optical store outside Central, and Shawn, a native of Pride and a long-time employee of DEMCO, decided to invest their life savings to serving the people of Central.

So far, the response has been phenomenal, and they are already exceeding projections in their business plan by 18 months.

Shawn says the desire of the people of Central to support a locally-owned family business, personal service, wide selection, and low prices have been key factors in their success so far.

The Parkers feel blessed that their brand-new shop did not flood in August.  One of the good things that did happen was that they have been joined by Dr. Mary Vaughan of Central whose office at Target on Millerville was flooded.

Tracy Parker has years of experience in the optical business but Shawn has had to learn the business.  He is responsible for grinding lenses and creating the finished product.  It is a labor of love, and he enjoys it.  “There is a lot of math involved, and that is my strong suit!” he said.

Like most small business owners, the Parkers have taken a great risk, since Shawn gave up a good-paying job and a retirement at DEMCO.

One of the big draws to The Spectacle has been attractive pricing.  The best seller is a complete set of single lens glasses, made to order, for $48.95.

When the Central school system was founded, the Parkers lived in Pride, but they were so attracted to Central schools that Tracy got a job with the school system, so that the children would be eligible to attend schools here.  It meant getting up at 3 a.m. every morning, getting the kids there by 5 a.m. and working until 12 noon.  Eventually, the Parkers moved into the district.

They have enjoyed becoming part of the Central community and developing relationships with the people here. Tracy said, “We really love Central.  It is a wonderful place to live and own a business.”

People who want to do business with The Spectacle can bring a prescription or schedule an appointment with Dr. Vaughan.  Glasses are normally made while you wait.

If you’d like to see the selection, just drop by or call for an appointment at 225-421-1733.